Summerland civic workers ratify a new agreement

The District of Summerland has reached a new contract agreement with about 80 unionized city workers.

Members of the Summerland local of the Canadian Union of Public Employees and the District of Summerland voted in favour of ratifying a new five-year agreement, which was reached last week after multiple bargaining sessions.

The new deal, which is retroactive to Jan. 1, 2018, includes wage increases of two per cent in the first year, 1.75per cent in the second, and two per cent each of the remaining three years. There are also increases to shift premiums, boot allowance and probationary employee pay, as well as an agreement to explore flexible work schedules with the district.

“We are pleased to have concluded this round of negotiations and to have a new agreement in place that we believe benefits both workers and the community,” said Lionel Bruckal, the president of CUPE 1136. “We look forward to continuing to partner with the district to provide quality community services to residents and businesses.”

CUPE 1136 represents about 80 members who work in a range of departments including water and wastewater treatment, public works, engineering and recreation and also provide support and clerical services for the district and RCMP.